Sam Smith to perform at Abu Dhabi’s Formula 1 after-race show

Sam Smith is set to perform for the very first time in Abu Dhabi at Formula 1’s after-race concert ‘Yasalam’ on November 24. The British singer-songwriter joins previously confirmed Grand Prix headliners, The Weeknd and rockers Guns N’ Roses, who will play du Arena on November 23 and 25 respectively.

Sam Smith is set to perform for the very first time in Abu Dhabi at Formula 1’s after-race concert ‘Yasalam’ on November 24.

The British singer-songwriter joins previously confirmed Grand Prix headliners, The Weeknd and rockers Guns N’ Roses, who will play du Arena on November 23 and 25 respectively. A fourth and final act will soon be confirmed for November 22, with expectations to be a big name.

Al Tareq Al Ameri, CEO of Yas Marina Circuit, commented: “Sam Smith is the third A-list international artist we have announced for the Yasalam After-Race Concerts as part of the 2018 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix race weekend.”

“2018 marks a very significant year for us as we celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and with three great acts now revealed, we are looking forward to announcing the final artist who will take to the stage as part of an incredible weekend of racing and live music and entertainment for all ticket holders.”

Smith performing at the event might be a progressive step historically for the LGBTQ community, as currently same-sex marriages are not recognized in the UAE and both civil and Sharia law criminalize homosexual activity.

The Baby, You Make Me Crazy singer is currently on his world tour promoting his second studio album “The Thrill of It All”.

Admitting he is famous for his more sombre music, Sam told the audience at London’s The O2 arena in April: “I’ve tried really hard to make this show uplifting because I know my music can be really depressing. I want you to leave here feeling uplifted. Life is so emotional, just today I’ve been through a hundred different emotions, but I want you to forget about all the tough things for the next two hours and go on a journey with me. I want you to sing along to every song, and even if you don’t know the words will you pretend you know the words? I want you to dance when I tell you to dance.”